How to select hearing aid?
A hearing aid is a small electronic device placed behind or in your ear to help you hear better. It contains a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker. Hearing aids are the most common treatment for hearing loss. But they can be confusing because there are so many styles, features and technologies available in the newest generation of hearing aids.
How do I choose a hearing aid?
Your healthcare provider will help you choose the right hearing aid for your needs. The type that is best for you may depend on the type of hearing loss you have.
Choose the right size: Hearing aids come in many different sizes. Choose a hearing aid that you can handle well and that fits your ear comfortably.
Choose the right fit: You may need a hearing aid that rests behind your ear. It is connected by a tube to a molded plastic piece that fits inside your ear. This hearing aid has larger controls and dials. You may need a hearing aid that fits just inside your ear. These fit securely but may be easy to see. Hearing aids that fit in your ear canal are hidden and hard to see. Ask which hearing aid is best for you.
Ask about feedback: Feedback is a whistling sound that comes out of the ear mold when it does not fit properly. Feedback makes hearing difficult. Some hearing aids cause more feedback than others. You may need to try several types of hearing aids to find what works best for you.
Hearing aid types and styles
Behind-the-ear (BTE) aids: Most parts are contained in a small plastic case that rests behind the ear; the case is connected to an earmold or an earpiece by a piece of clear tubing. This style is often chosen for young children because it can accommodate various earmold types, which need to be replaced as the child grows. Also, the BTE aids are easy to be cleaned and handled, and are relatively sturdy.
"Mini" BTE (or "on-the-ear") aids: A new type of BTE aid called the mini BTE (or "on-the-ear") aid. It also fits behind/on the ear, but is smaller. A very thin, almost invisible tube is used to connect the aid to the ear canal. Mini BTEs may have a comfortable ear piece for insertion ("open fit"), but may also use a traditional earmold. Mini BTEs allow not only reduced occlusion or "plugged up" sensations in the ear canal, but also increase comfort, reduce feedback and address cosmetic concerns for many users.
In-the-ear (ITE) aids: All parts of the hearing aid are contained in a shell that fills in the outer part of the ear. The ITE aids are larger than the in-the-canal and completely-in-the-canal aids (see below), and for some people may be easier to handle than smaller aids.
In-the-canal (ITC) aids and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) aids: These hearing aids are contained in tiny cases that fit partly or completely into the ear canal. They are the smallest hearing aids available and offer cosmetic and some listening advantages. However, their small size may make them difficult to handle and adjust for some people.
Invisible In Canal (IIC): The smallest custom style, IIC instruments, sit invisibly in or past the second bend of the ear canal. IIC devices are specifically designed for mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
We Help Selecting Best Hearing Aid for You!
What special features or accessories are available?
In an effort to differentiate brands and to better meet the growing needs of those with hearing loss, many hearing aid manufacturers offer accessories with their hearing aids. Your audiologist will likely go over the types of accessories available with hearing aids and discuss how you could benefit from the use of such items. Hearing aid features include:
Noise reduction
Directional microphones
Rechargeable batteries
Telecoils
Wireless connectivity
Remote controls
Direct audio input
Variable programming
Environmental noise control
Synchronization
The best way to select the right hearing aid for you is to be evaluated by an audiologist. Once your hearing loss is determined, they will be able to work with you through your hearing test results to find the perfect hearing device for your particular hearing loss.
By choosing Shruti Hearing Loss Clinic, you will have access to the latest cutting-edge hearing technology. You’ll also be able to speak to our expert Audiologists, whose knowledge, care and dedication will transform the way you hear the world around you. With hearing care professionals, we are committed to delivering the highest quality of service and care, in order to achieve the best hearing experience for you.
References
How can I find out if I need a hearing aid?